Superior mesenteric artery syndrome
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Synopsis

The condition is characterized by nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, metabolic alkalosis, abdominal or epigastric pain, and weight loss. It may present with life-threatening complications mainly related to malnutrition or hypovolemia. Symptoms improve in the prone positon, left lateral decubitus position, or in the fetal position. The majority of cases are recognized in women in the second and third decades of life. The nonspecific symptoms make SMAS difficult to diagnose and often lead to delays in recognition as other causes are excluded.
Codes
ICD10CM:K55.1 – Chronic vascular disorders of intestine
SNOMEDCT:
197006009 – Superior mesenteric artery syndrome
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Antral web
- Annular pancreas
- Gastric outlet obstruction
- Malrotation / volvulus
- Gastroenteritis
- Hiatal hernia
- Abdominal migraine
- Pseudo-obstruction
- Small bowel obstruction
- Duplication cyst
- Duodenal hematoma
- Duodenal or gastric ulcer
- Pancreatitis (acute and chronic)
- Cholecystitis
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
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Last Reviewed:01/07/2018
Last Updated:01/25/2018
Last Updated:01/25/2018